Vendor Spotlight - Jenny Yoo

We sat down and chatted with Kristen Stern, the Showroom Manager of Jenny Yoo Chicago. You can get to know more about her, the Chicago Showroom, and the whole bridal appointment process in our interview!

About Kristen Stern, Showroom Manager of Jenny Yoo Chicago:
Kristen has been with Jenny Yoo for three and a half years and has watched the collection grow. She started off part-time in sales, moved into the Assistant Manager position, and recently became the Showroom Manager in January.

Kristen, what is your favorite wedding tradition?
”I know first looks are really big these days but my husband and I saw each other for the first time when I walked down the aisle. I love that tradition because there is no better or special feeling than seeing the reaction of your future spouse for the first time.”

Walk me through a typical bridal appointment at Jenny Yoo:
"Our showroom is by appointment only, which is really nice because then we can give the bride or bridesmaid party more of personalized and a one on one experience. Each consultant will ask asks specific questions, and then pull pieces that help connect them to their vision while keeping style, color, and budget in mind. Our appointments run one hour long, so we typically start with approximately 6 bridal gowns to try on first. Depending on how quickly we move through them, we can always add additional pieces to try. Throughout the appointment, we help pair various accessories and veils with their favorite gowns to help create their vision. At the end of each appointment, the bride will receive a folder with all her favorite dress information."

What makes Jenny Yoo different than other bridal salons?
“We fill out an online profile for every single bride and then at the end of the appointment give them a folder they can take home with all the ordering procedures, prices, their favorite styles, and favorite colors. This gives them a concrete way to see and remember everything. Another thing that sets Jenny Yoo apart from other salons is our variety in sample styles, colors and sizes. We carry the entire Jenny Yoo bridal and bridesmaids collection with sample sizes ranging from 4 to 22 in both bridal and bridesmaids styles. This really allows the bride and bridesmaid to envision how their dress will look on the wedding day.”

How many appointments does a bride usually book?
“Every bride is unique, but they typically average about 3-4 appointments at various salons before making decision. Because Jenny Yoo is a specific aesthetic and has a curated style, we encourage our brides to do a little shopping or take a look at our website before stopping in to get an idea of what they’re interested in. Bridal shopping is different for everyone. Some say “yes” day of, while others need a little more time to “date” their favorites before making a final decision.”

How long does it take to order the dress?
“Our dresses are all made-to-order and have a lead time of 12-16 weeks depending on the time of year. Right now we are on the 12 week lead time and shipping for late May.”

Can you talk about the difference between the Jenny by Jenny Yoo collection and the main Jenny Yoo bridal collection?
“The Jenny by Jenny Yoo collection is more youthful, classic, effortless, and sleek. These gowns range between $800-$2200. Whereas, our main Jenny Yoo bridal collection starts at $2500 and goes up to a $4500 price point. These pieces are elegant, sophisticated and have more delicate and luxurious materials.”

What do you think is the most popular dress trend is right now?
“Brides are really trending towards a clean, classic silhouette in an elegant Crepe, Taffeta, and Silk Mikado fabric with minimal lace and embellishment. This look really stands the test of time and is easy to move in!”

What is your favorite bridesmaid color?
“Cinnamon Rose is my personal favorite. It’s a pretty mix between a mauve and a dark cabernet color, which is great for all skin types.”

What other items do you sell at Jenny Yoo?
“We have an excellent variety for bridal accessories including veils, belts, headpieces, and jewelry. We also sell silk robes and lingerie sets, which make for a beautiful bridesmaid or bachelorette gift!”

To learn more about Jenny Yoo Chicago you can visit the link here!